By VICTOR OKOYE

Mustapha Abdullahi has been elected President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF), defeating former D’Tigers captain Olumide Oyedeji and ex-International Ejike Ugboaja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abdullahi secured 48 votes in Thursday’s election in Abuja, while Oyedeji polled eight votes.

Ugboaja failed to secure any vote.

The result ushers in a new administration at the federation, with Abdullahi succeeding outgoing President, Musa Kida.

In another development, Ugo Udezue emerged unopposed as NBBF Vice President, having been the sole candidate for the position.

The election marks a new leadership phase for Nigerian basketball, with the incoming board expected to tackle challenges affecting the sport’s growth and administration.

Key issues include domestic competitions, grassroots development, players’ welfare, funding and the strengthening of basketball structures across the country.

Abdullahi, who is the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, assumes office at a crucial time for the sport.

His emergence follows the international successes of the national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, and growing calls for stronger structures to sustain basketball development at home.

The new administration is expected to build on these achievements while creating more opportunities for players and improving the competitiveness of domestic basketball. (NAN)